by Catherine Carter

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpum) offers much more than mere tang for the tongue. Cranberries are good sources of natural antioxidants. In addition to the usual nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, extracts of the fruit are also rich in anthocyanin, flavonoids, and phenolic acids which also have antioxidant properties.

These little tart berries help to sanitize the urinary tract and may help to keep your internal plumbing free flowing. Cranberry juice or the cooked berries are an old time cure for bladder infections.

A diagnosis of a urinary tract infection refers to a presence of a large amount of bacteria in the urine that can cause pain during urination and can lead to more severe infections of the bladder and kidneys

A recent study highlighted the usefulness of cranberry, for UTIs. As far back as 1887 a Dr. Millspaugh commented on how Indians and settlers used the plant for uterine affections and puerperal (childbirth) diseases. Interestingly one of the old time uses of cranberries, by Native Americans was for nausea and research has now highlighted cranberries usefulness against e.coli bacteria.

Avoid juice with added sweeteners. Don’t drink in excess. The study did not determine a recommended dose.

Cranberries are a rich source of oxalic acid which in excess can inhibit calcium absorption. Here’s to your health.